Block by Block gets another $1.35 million

Block by Block, a self-help disaster recovery project that set out a year ago to rebuild eight residential blocks in flood-damaged Cedar Rapids neighborhoods, received a $1.35 million federal grant Aug. 30.

“This means we can complete the 24 blocks we've taken on and, hopefully, we can grow into some more blocks that will keep us going through the next construction season,” said Clint Twedt-Ball of Matthew 25 and program coordinator for Block by Block.

Gov. Chet Culver called Block by Block “an inspiring example about how neighbors can help neighbors in creating an atmosphere of recovery.”

“The mission of this project is to rebuild and re-energize disaster areas one block at a time,” he said at Block by Block Offices at the Hubbard Ice Building in northwest Cedar Rapids. “Organizers and participants have proven that success is contagious, and I'm pleased that the state can help them reach their goals.”

The federal Special Services Disaster Social Services Block Grant, similar to a community development block grant, according to the governor's spokesman, brings the project's total public and private funding to $7.2 million.

Participation in Block by Block is voluntary, but at least 60 percent of property owners must agree to participate before Block by Block commits to assist. The project was an immediate success, attracting public and private donations plus thousands of volunteer work hours.

Culver estimated people in 300 homes will be helped by Block by Block.

The grant goes to the Affordable Housing Network Inc. which was organized by the Four Oaks social service agency of Cedar Rapids. Partners in Block by Block also include the Matthew 25 Ministry Hub and the United Methodist Church.

Culver said Block by Block is vital to flood recovery efforts because the real challenge is in implementing assistance programs.

“The money is there, but how to you stretch it and leverage it?” he said.

He also thanked flood-affected families for the patience, faith and resilience.